Superstar Mahesh Babu and visionary director S.S. Rajamouli’s upcoming film “Varanasi” has already created a buzz! While the film is still more than a year and a half away (expected release date: 2027), the fan frenzy is already at its peak. The recent title teaser event for “Varanasi” at Ramoji Film City was somewhat controversial due to technical issues, but as soon as Mahesh Babu’s “Rudra” look was revealed, the internet went wild! Videos, memes, and edits of the teaser are going viral on social media. Audiences are treated to a unique avatar, holding a trident and riding a bull, suggesting the film will be a grand fusion of time-travel adventure and Indian mythology.
A budget of ₹1300 crore? You’ll be shocked to hear his fee!
According to media reports, ‘Varanasi’ is set to be one of the most expensive films ever made in Indian cinema. Many sources claim the film’s budget could reach ₹1,300 crore, while some reports estimate it between ₹1,000 and ₹1,500 crore. However, the makers have not yet revealed the official budget.
With such a large film, there will inevitably be discussion about the stars’ fees! It’s especially interesting to learn about the fees of Mahesh Babu, Rajamouli, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran.
Mahesh Babu and Rajamouli’s Unique Deal
Mahesh Babu (in the role of ‘Rudra’): According to reports, Mahesh Babu has not taken a fixed fee for this film! He has opted for a profit-sharing model with Rajamouli. It’s said that both will receive approximately 40% of the film’s profits. It’s a big gamble, but if the film is a hit, his earnings could reach hundreds of crores!
S.S. Rajamouli (Director): Like Mahesh Babu, Rajamouli isn’t charging a fixed fee. He will also share in the film’s profits. His son, S.S. Karthikeya, is also a partner in the film’s production, which could see Rajamouli’s earnings skyrocket alongside Mahesh Babu’s.
Priyanka Chopra’s Fee: Did She Break Records?
Priyanka Chopra (playing Mandakini): Global star Priyanka Chopra Jonas’s fee has surprised everyone. According to reports, she is charging up to ₹30 crore for this film, making her one of India’s highest-paid actresses. The media believes that she will receive equal screen space as Mahesh Babu and feature in explosive action sequences, which is why her fee is so high.
Prithviraj Sukumaran (as Kumbha): There is no confirmed news yet about the fee of actor Prithviraj Sukumaran, who plays the villain ‘Kumbha’ in the film. Earlier reports suggested he would receive ₹20 crore, but this is no longer clear.
Madhavan to play Mahesh Babu’s father!
It is reported that senior Tamil actor R. Madhavan will be seen in another important role in the film. It is being said that he may play Mahesh Babu’s father. Earlier, senior Tollywood actor Nagarjuna’s name was mentioned for this role, but now there is talk of Madhavan being finalized.